With The Bachelor final rose ceremony right around the corner, there is a lot of buzz around where the overnight dates and season finale were filmed. I'm not a huge bachelor fan, but I do occasionally tune in to check out the resorts and locations where the show was shot. After working for Sandals, I immediately recognized this year's finale spot from the previews. I've stayed at Sandals Royal Plantation a number of times, so figured I would do a quick review, for any of you "bachelorettes" that are curious.

Sandals Royal Plantation is located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, about an hour and a half from the Montego Bay airport. Ocho Rios is a town offering a bunch of activities that encourage you to leave your resort and explore, including climbing the famous Dunn's River Falls, or pretending you are a Jamaican bobsled driver - I've done both. Although it's an all inclusive, the resort is more of a boutique hotel, with only 74 suites, each with an ocean view and personal butler.

Royal Plantation does not have a huge beach, but it's very secluded and quiet, compared to other Sandals Resorts. The photo shows that the beach is divided into two parts, known as East and West Beach. To get to the beaches you much climb down a number off stone steps from the bluff, so I would not recommend this hotel for anyone that is physically challenged.

Unlike other Sandals, this resort leaves the pool bars and bumping music behind, creating a more serine experience. The below photo shows the hotel's only pool, a far cry from the mammoth pools Sandals is typically known for, so if you are a pool person this might not be your spot, the resort is definitely more beach focused.

Pictured above, most rooms include a french balcony, with upgraded categories having full size and wrap around options for privacy. Below is one of the suite bathrooms, which I think is an area where the hotel is lacking. The bathrooms feel a little outdated, and could use a slight refresh and updating, which is something to note if considering Royal Plantation for your vacation.

If you like to have your cake and eat it too, book the Villa Plantana, a private villa, in a secluded location on the property. It's the best of both worlds, having its own pool and private entrance, but still offering the option to join in the fun at the main resort.

In the evening the resort has a quite and relaxed atmosphere typically offering jazz, or a band on the outdoor terrace. Royal Planation has three restaurants for dining, as well as a beach grill during the day. If you are staying for longer and want more dining options, nightlife, or need a pool bar fix, there is a small path that connects this resort to it's neighbor, Sandals Ochi - just an inside tip ;) But please note the guests at nearby Sandals Ochi are not allowed to visit the Royal Plantation property. If you want to know more about Sandals Royal Plantaiton, or Jamaica, let us help!